Apistogramma Cacatuoides Tank water chemistry help needed

[Samantha R Sylvester]

Hi all
I've set up a planted tank 38g and was wondering what my pH and hardness should be for creating an Apistogramma Cacatuoides home. Right now my pH is 8 I've done one water change with RO to start bring the numbers down "more naturally" and paln on using this as a way to keep to levels consistent. I have put drift wood and Java fern in the tank and plan on adding Java moss as well.. ANY suggestions and tips are helpfull

 

[Mike Wise]

A. cacatuoides is very adaptable to water values. Ideally you should get the water to about neutral (or slightly lower) and moderately soft (<10° dH). Many aquarists have bred this species in slightly alkaline, moderate hard water.